Republican leaders aim to further strengthen state’s fiscal health, government efficiency NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The House Finance, Ways and Means Committee on Tuesday began a series of budget hearings to review the performance and financial status of state agencies since fiscal year 2020. The hearings, led by the House Finance, Ways and Means Committee Chair […]
Republican leaders aim to further strengthen state’s fiscal health, government efficiency
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The House Finance, Ways and Means Committee on Tuesday began a series of budget hearings to review the performance and financial status of state agencies since fiscal year 2020.
The hearings, led by the House Finance, Ways and Means Committee Chair Gary Hicks, R-Rogersville, are part of the Republican supermajority’s ongoing efforts to ensure transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility in state government. Budget hearings begin Tuesday, Oct. 28, at 10 a.m. at the Cordell Hull Office Building in House Hearing Room 1.
Department heads and agency leaders will appear before lawmakers to provide detailed updates on spending, program outcomes and future funding needs. The committee’s focus will include examining how taxpayer dollars have been utilized over the past five years and identifying opportunities for greater efficiency across state operations.
“Every dollar the state spends belongs to the people of Tennessee,” Hicks said. “Our responsibility is to make sure those dollars are being used wisely and effectively. By taking a close look at agency performance over the last five years, we can better understand what’s working, where improvements are needed, and how to ensure Tennessee remains on a strong fiscal path.”
Hicks emphasized that the hearings are a key step in preparing for the upcoming legislative session and for developing next year’s state budget. State agency representatives are expected to discuss department programs, grant administration, and the status of capital improvements. They will also report on projects supported by federal COVID-19 relief funds and outline the effects of expiring federal dollars on ongoing operations.
Tennessee’s conservative budgeting practices have positioned the state as a national leader in fiscal stability and economic growth, Hicks said.
“We’re proud that Tennessee continues to live within its means, maintain a balanced budget, and keep one of the lowest tax burdens in the country,” Hicks said. “These hearings will help us build on that record of responsible stewardship and make strategic investments that serve Tennesseans well into the future.”
Since 2012, Tennessee’s Republican supermajority has delivered more than $5.1 billion in tax relief to citizens. The Volunteer State collects zero income tax and consistently ranks as one of the most fiscally responsible and lowest-taxed states in the nation.
Tennesseans can explore how their tax dollars are used through an interactive, easy-to-use budget transparency tool available on the state’s official website.
The House Finance, Ways and Means Committee hearings begin at 10 a.m. each day on Oct. 28, 29 and 30 and will be streamed live at capitol.tn.gov. For a complete department schedule, visit the House schedule and calendars here.
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“Every dollar the state spends belongs to the people of Tennessee,” Hicks said. “Our responsibility is to make sure those dollars are being used wisely and effectively. By taking a close look at agency performance over the last five years, we can better understand what’s working, where improvements are needed, and how to ensure Tennessee remains on a strong fiscal path.”